Leading UK port operator, Peel Ports Group, has been recognised as the UK’s top company in this year’s prestigious Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 league table.
Its ambitious development plans and strong financial results were key factors in the Liverpool-based business leaping 25 places ahead on its 2014 ranking.
Compiled by research and networking events company Fast Track, the annual table ranks Britain's top performing private companies and entrepreneurs.
The business reported an operating profit of £137.3m for the year ending March 2015 – results which come on the back of consistent growth over the last five years across a broad range of commodity groups.
Welcoming the announcement, Mark Whitworth, chief executive of Peel Ports, said: “This ranking recognises not only our strong financial performance but the importance of our continuing focus on responding to ever-evolving customer needs.
“We are currently investing £650m in infrastructure projects, including £100m in a new biomass terminal, £125m at Port Salford on the Manchester Ship Canal and £300m on a landmark terminal expansion project Liverpool2.
“However, despite continued pressure on margins, we remain committed to helping customers deliver their goods to market, with reduced costs, less congestion and lower carbon emissions.
“To receive this recognition in the face of tough competition from our peers is a testament to the hard work of our 2,700 employees.”